§ Mr. Viggersasked the Secretary of State for Energy (1) how many oil wells have been drilled by BNOC in its role as operator; and how many of these have resulted in a discovery of oil or gas which is currently expected to be capable of being developed on a commercial basis;
(2) how many wells have been drilled by consortia of which BNOC is a member; and how many of these have resulted in a discovery of oil or gas which is currently expected to be capable of being developed on a commercial basis.
§ Dr. John CunninghamTwenty exploration wells, according to the Department of Energy's standard classification have so far been completed in which BNOC or its subsidiaries have an equity interest. The Corporation and its subsidiaries have operated three of these. Four oil discoveries have been made, but it is too early to say whether commercial developments will proceed in each case. A further number of wells have been drilled to appraise or develop other discoveries made previously.